Clifford Scott

Photo: Polly Harrison

Clifford Scott was born Dec. 21, 1928 in San Antonio.   His first professional job there was at the Keyhole Club in 1946.  He was "discovered" by Lionel Hampton at age 14 and worked in Hamp's band from 1948-50.   After working with the Rhythm and Blues bands of Roy Molton and Roy Brown, he rejoined Hamp in 1953.

Clifford left Hamp in 1954 to study arranging in New York.  He freelanced there extensively until joining Bill Doggett in 1956, staying until 1961.  It was during this period that Scott composed his best-remembered hit tune, Honky Tonk.  He then left for Los Angeles to work in the recording studios there.

Clifford toured with Ray Charles on and off from 1966 until 1973, when he left for Los Angeles to work at the Parisian Room.  He left for San Antonio in 1976 and remained there for the rest of his career. 

While in San Antonio, Clifford was active as a saxophonist and played frequently at the Landing and other venues.

Clifford Scott died on April 19, 1993 in San Antonio.